What Are Network APIs?
In today’s hyperconnected world, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) play a crucial role in enabling seamless communication and interaction between data producers and information consumers, this is particularly true within wireless networks where APIs enable the flow of information between network elements and applications. These APIs operate as standardized or non-standardized interfaces, allowing software components to exchange data and commands, facilitating various functionalities such as device discovery, network management, and data retrieval. As wireless networks become increasingly integral to use cases like Internet of Things (IoT), smart homes, and mobile applications, APIs provide developers with the tools to harness the full potential of these networks. By abstracting complex networking protocols and providing a more straightforward means of access, Wireless Network APIs empower developers to create innovative solutions that enhance connectivity and user experience across diverse platforms and devices.
What Are the Categories of Network API and What Is Their Adoption So Far?
There are several methods for Network APIs categorization. Considering their consumers, Network APIs can be broadly categorized into three main types: public, private, and partner APIs.
Public APIs, also known as open APIs, are designed to be accessible by external developers and the broader community, fostering innovation and enabling third-party applications to integrate with wireless networks. This openness encourages a rich ecosystem of applications, enhancing the overall functionality of the network.
Private APIs, on the other hand, are restricted for internal use within an organization, allowing teams to streamline processes and improve efficiency without exposing sensitive data or systems to outside developers.
Lastly, Partner APIs are shared selectively with specific business partners to facilitate collaboration and enhance mutual offerings. This categorization not only clarifies the intended audience and usage of each API type but also highlights the varying levels of access and control over network resources, enabling organizations to tailor their approach based on their strategic goals.
Adoption of network APIs has seen a significant boost in recent years, particularly with the collaborative efforts among global CSP (Communication Service Provider) giants such as AT&T, Verizon, Deutsche Telekom, and Vodafone. In 2024, the telecom sector, alongside companies like Ericsson and Google Cloud, formed new ventures to standardize and monetize network APIs through the GSMA Open Gateway project. This initiative aims to provide universal access to advanced mobile network capabilities across multiple industries, enabling applications like remote maintenance, immersive online gaming, robotics, and fraud prevention.
This unified approach to API development is designed to standardize how network capabilities globally get exposed, so developers can build applications that interact with mobile networks in consistent, efficient ways. For example, telecom operators are partnering with cloud providers like AWS and Microsoft Azure to create APIs that support 5G services, Quality-on-Demand connectivity, and improved cybersecurity. A practical application of this collaboration allows apps to ensure smooth video streaming by dynamically adjusted quality based on network status, making these services accessible across any participating operator's infrastructure.
These developments are forecasted to open up substantial revenue opportunities, potentially unlocking $300 billion by 2030, particularly in sectors like banking, logistics, and extended reality. As part of this push, new APIs supporting device location verification, identity management, and SIM swap are being commercialized for secure online transactions, all of which enhance the overall digital ecosystem. With more CSPs joining the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, the industry aims to drive further innovation by providing developers with standardized tools to tap into the unique capabilities of advanced mobile networks.
Open standardization procedure and developers’ accessibility which ensures interoperability across vendors and governance for open access/transparency have become main pillars on that effort. These globally developed Open APIs contribute to unrestricted access and collaboration, building an ecosystem which invites developers for contributions. Indicative examples of already established frameworks are RESTful APIs for HTTP (also applied 5G SBI design), CAMARA APIs and OpenID for authentication.
Do We Need a Complete Ecosystem Around Network APIs?
Considering all above, the need to define a complete ecosystem around Network APIs becomes evident. A holistic ecosystem will empower increased industry revenue through optimized and innovative groundbreaking services. The roles of each participant in this ecosystem must be transparent and clearly defined providing the necessary privileges.
Therefore, key Network APIs Ecosystem roles along with their contribution in APIs are:
CSPs, provide foundational infrastructure (core network, RAN, interconnections with other CSPs) and enable access to network analytics and capabilities such as location, security and traffic management.
Contribution: By exposing network functions as APIs, they allow external parties to build applications that use network data, thereby generating new revenue streams and encouraging innovation.
Cloud Providers, collaborating closely with CSPs, they facilitate hosting and integration of network functionalities within cloud platforms. In parallel they also host platform enablers in the cloud, providing end to end synergy, between those two parties.
Contribution: Cloud providers often support the deployment and management of these APIs, ensuring seamless integration with cloud-native services and enterprise applications.
Standardization Bodies are organizations like GSMA and CAMARA, defining standard API frameworks and guidelines for interoperability, data protection, and network compatibility.
Contribution: They create standards for APIs development, ensuring that APIs from different network operators are interoperable and compatible with global applications.
Developers and Third-Party Application Providers, develop applications, platforms, and services that leverage Network APIs to create new user experiences or improve operational efficiency.
Contribution: By incorporating network functionalities, developers can create solutions in areas like IoT, AR/VR, video streaming, and smart cities, enabling wider service customization and enhancing user engagement.
Businesses and Enterprises, integrate Network APIs into their internal systems to enhance their own digital capabilities.
Contribution: Enterprises from various industries (such as manufacturing, healthcare, retail) use Network APIs to improve security, optimize connectivity, or offer tailored customer services, leveraging network data and capabilities for competitive advantage.
Consumers/End Users benefit indirectly from services built on Network APIs, experiencing improved connectivity, personalized services, and innovative applications.
Contribution: User needs drive demand for applications that leverage Network APIs, influencing the direction of API development to cater to experiences like on-demand video quality, low-latency gaming, and seamless smart device interaction.
What Are the Actual Benefits from the Development of APIs Ecosystem?
Key Initiatives Supporting the Network APIs Ecosystem
In essence, the Network APIs ecosystem enables a highly collaborative digital environment, where CSPs, tech companies, developers, and enterprises work together to leverage network functionalities for a range of innovative solutions and enhanced digital experiences. Through this extended partnership on APIs context, industries can access critical network functions to enhance connectivity, enable automation, and build new, secure digital services.
Mobileum’s Contribution in This Run
As the telecom industry evolves, APIs have become a vital capability for connecting diverse applications and enabling efficient services. Mobileum, a provider of solutions requiring data access from multiple sources, has actively engaged in standardization initiatives, including contributing to the development of some TM Forum APIs. This involvement supports seamless integration across telecom systems, helping operators scale their services while reducing complexity and ensuring interoperability and consistent data flow.
The future of Network APIs is highly promising, enabling an interconnected world by integrating advanced network capabilities such as real-time data, AI-driven insights, and ultra-low latency. These advancements will revolutionize digital experiences and unlock unprecedented opportunities for innovation across industries.
Contact us to learn more about APIs and how Mobileum can partner with you in this journey.